The Merkava is the innovative Israeli
design of Major General Israel Tal. The primary design criteria
was crew survivability. Every part of the overalldesign is expected
to contribute to helping the crew survive. The engine is inthe
front to provide protection to the crew. There is a special protectiveumbrella
for the tank commander to enable protection from indirect fire
with thehatches open. Special "spaced armor" is in use
along with protectedfuel and ammo compartments.

The Merkava can also carry a small Infantry
squad internally under complete armored protection.